First of all, I think it's admirable of you to expect to take care of your self and not to "expect" your hosts to cater to you. And I'd think that if you explain up front that you have low blood sugar issues and are willing to share they should understand. When I stay at someone's home I try to go overboard to justify my stay by taking them treats and even as far as buying and cooking them a meal. However, on the other hand I don't go overboard when I'm the host and someone can't eat a particular dish, I make enough dishes so that they won't sit and go hungry while everyone else is eating. For instance, if they are vegetarian or lactose intolerant, I will still put meat and dairy on the menu for the other guests and understand if they refuse to eat them.

When I travel I throw a bunch of granola bars in my bag to keep me alive until the food arrives. I like to eat cereal and have coffee first thing (remember that for when I come to your house!). I also have a mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack. This way I have something to grab when my stomach is growling and my hosts are on a different schedule from me.

Since this is your sister, just let her know that you need a bite or two first thing as you are an early bird. I would hope that she would not be offended, particularly if you are bringing the coffee cake or whatever. Heaven knows I would not be upset by this if you came here.

Bring enough for everyone, because all will think you had a wonderful idea and want a bite to tide them over until brunch.

Thanks for your responses! I admit I've been a little concerned about this. I think I'll speak to my sister casually about what I've put in the fridge after she arrives the day after the rest of us travel to the coast. And we can stop and get some groceries on the way.

Teresa

I agree, Teresa, she's your sister, so it may be easier to discuss this with her than with a person who is not a family member.

I also think taking a coffee cake and some bread and coffee is a good idea, but I'd also slip those granola bars into my luggage, just for munchies. I'm with sushipup on this, homemade bread toasting and everyone will want some, I know I would.

Have fun!

Annie

Aw Teresa, I'm so sorry you even have to have doubts about this. Lots of us with diabetes get nauseous if we go too long between meals. I stay up very late at night so I even have to have a small meal before bed. Yes, even if you just wanted to eat something early it would be fine, but just explain your reason and if she doesn't seem supportive, do what you need to do! Enjoy.

We always bring a stuffed cooler full of cheeses, fruit and loads of easy-to-platter snacks. Always appreciated for all the various diets, and low blood sugar (me) needs.

You seem a bit hesitant. Maybe she is a social planner for gatherings and thinks you will not appreciate the late brunch by killing your appetite? That would be unfortunate. I'm an early riser and need a good pot of coffee and a bite of fruit, yogurt and granola.
Always, every family gathering, they think i go overboard. Well, tough tittie. They love it and it takes a bit of stress off the hostess. (Though i have done this for years so they know me well.)

I suppose i would just mention that you want to help out and plan to bring some snacks...

Teresa, be sure to bring (or buy) enough food for everyone because they'll all eat whatever they see. lol!

It's family! but even if it wasn't family, you should simply state that you need food early in the morning and bring whatever you like that doesn't interfere by requiring too much refrigerator space or too much messy cooking/baking.

Teresa, Knowing the relationship you have with them (sis and BIL) I would say do what you have to do to take care of your health needs. I have no doubt that you will do the right thing. Oh, and if you need me to go to their "cottage" on the beach to help you, let me know!

((Cathy))

Teresa I wouldn't think twice about it.....if you are at all uncomfortable present at as a "bread and butter" gift . You could even make a little basket with some breads and muffins and teas.

I always take breakfast breads as a hostess gift. I find they are always well received and the hostess is glad to serve them.

Can't remember last time I'd consider myself a "house guest" in someone's home. Generally, it's family or really CLOSE friends... so no stress.

Last time stayed over in someone's house was my sister's mountain place in WV. Well equipped kitchen. Kinda knew or found where stuff was. NO schedule... laid back for sure. If I woke up first, started a pot of coffee. Anytime I'm there, it's about family, food, fun, and very few plans... everything ends up on the fly.

Same at SIL's place... actually my sister-OUT-law!?! When got divorced from her brother, it was NOT messy and I didn't divorce THEM!! Before she fixed up spare room (looks like a mini hotel room now), the couch, a pillw and a blanket was just FINE for me... with "killer" chihuauha usually perched on top of me at some point. Now I make sure bed is MADE... something I rarely do at home??

Where ever I am, will check things like dishwasher... clean stuff will find its way back to proper places. If trash can is full, will find where it goes and put new bag in.

As an older man that has been routinely arising at 5:00 A.M. since I was a young child, I make coffee, pour some juice and read the morning papers, fix an English muffin and take the Corgis for a walk. When we get back my wife is just getting up. Our family who we might visit a couple of times a year, know of my habits and we work very well together. We always bring food for all and enjoy taking them out for dinner.